Learn More about Dry Mouth

Dry Mouth is a common condition and is experienced by most of us once in a while. It is a feeling of not having enough saliva in your mouth. Saliva moistens and cleanses our mouth. It also controls bacteria in the mouth and aids in digestion of food. Saliva is produced by the salivary glands present in the mouth. Dry mouth is caused by decreased secretion of saliva due to poor functioning of salivary glands. Dry Mouth may be caused as a side effect of certain medications or medical treatments like radiation or chemotherapy or certain diseases and infections like Alzheimer’s. Dehydration, nerve damage to the neck or head region, smoking or tobacco chewing etc could also be possible causes for dry mouth. Dry mouth may cause difficulties in tasting, chewing and swallowing of food. You might also experience difficulty in speaking. It makes you more prone to mouth infections and teeth decay. If you have dry mouth you may experience a sticky dry feeling in the mouth along with sores in the mouth and increased thirst. You may also experience dry, sore throat, bad breath and a burning tingling sensation in the mouth or tongue. Dry Mouth treatment varies depending on the cause. If it is caused by medication, altering the dose may improve saliva secretion. Also medications are available to increase the functionality of the salivary glands. You can also stimulate saliva production by sucking on sugarless candy or avoiding tobacco, alcohol, tea, soda and caffeine. You may visit your dentist who would be able to find the cause and the right treatment for your dry mouth.